CONFERENCE
Persistent Work
When opening the celebration event, Leons Taivans, Professor at the UL Faculty of Humanities Department of Oriental Studies, recalled the 1980’s when he was invited to partake in compiling a Russian-Chinese dictionary. At that time, 33 authors worked on it, and nearly thirty years of work resulted in three dictionary volumes. Whereas the “Chinese-Latvian Dictionary” saw the light of day by Peteris Pildegovics’ continuous effort, successfully overcoming the obstacles he faced.
“I have the honour to present this remarkable Academic Dictionary to the academic community,” said L.Taivans. “The Dictionary is a proof that sinology in Latvia has finally ripened and can reveal us the Culture of China in its richness.”
When congratulating the Dictionary author, Marcis Auzins, the Rector of UL, also remembered his six-month visit to China several years ago. At that time the Rector wanted to acquire at least the basics of the Chinese language, which would be useful in everyday communication; however, he stumbled on the incredible complexity of the language.
“I highly appraise Peteris Pildegovics hard work, because he prepared the Dictionary content almost on his own. This Dictionary is not only a serious and significant investment in the improvement of the Chinese language study environment in Latvia, but also makes a priceless contribution to the development of bilateral relations between Latvia and China, because language is the foundation of communication,” M. Auzins emphasized.
Dedication to the “Pilot”
Considering that the Dictionary compilation project was supported by the Chinese Embassy to Latvia, the Dictionary launching celebration was also honoured by Chinese Ambassador to Latvia Hu Yeshun. The Ambassador greatly evaluated the accomplished work and expressed a deep appreciation to the author of the Dictionary. In his inspiring poem dedicated to Peteris Pildegovics, H.Yeshun referred to the Professor as a “Pilot at the Sea of Knowledge”.
“The published Dictionary is an invaluable input in the promotion of relations between Latvia and China, which we have attained by a concerted effort,” acknowledged H.Yeshun.
The Ambassador also expressed his admiration that it is possible to acquire the Chinese language at three universities, as well as, at two secondary schools in Latvia, which is very much, considering the country’s size.
Tool for Discovering the Unknown
The extensive work on the Dictionary was also supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia.
“Language is necessary in building up mutual understanding. Diplomats know how important it is to speak the language of your partner. And this Dictionary offers an opportunity to do so,” explained Andris Teikmanis, the State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the RL, when expressing his gratitude for the accomplished work.
The Minister of Education and Science Tatjana Koķe congratulated the Dictionary author with a bouquet of red roses, and referred to the wise words of Confucius, saying: “Confucius once said that what you know should be borne in mind, but what you don’t know should be discovered by yourself”. “The Chinese Latvian Dictionary” is a wonderful tool for discovering what we do not yet know,” said T.Koķe. “It is not work, but life that is devoted to the creation of this true treasure, which in the future will also serve as an information source to understand the past events.”
Dedication to Latvian Sinologists
Peteris Pildegovics, the Dictionary author, first learned about China in his childhood. On October 1, 1949 his father came home with a newspaper Fight, explaining that starting from that day a new country has appeared on the map – the People’s Republic of China. At that time Professor Pildegovics could not imagine the role the country will play in his career.
„More often I came across the fact that during translation process, commentaries are needed, and that it is not enough with formal word rendering,” explains the Dictionary author. “Now, I give in your evaluation my work, expressing my gratitude to the UL Faculty of Humanities, Department of Oriental Studies and the University Administration for their moral support, which allowed me to escape everyday commotion, and fully engage in the work.”
The sinologist himself called the Dictionary launching celebration a joyful event, adding that days flew by so fast that he did not notice the time pass so quickly.
„Firstly, the Dictionary is a study aid for students. Secondly, it is a guide for scientists. Thirdly, it is a book for those who do not know the Chinese language, but want to become acquainted with it,” Peteris Pildegovics mentions the possible applications of his work, emphasizing that he feels close to both Latvia and China.
Translated by students of the professional study programme Translator of the University of Latvia.
